News Article – 

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has decided not to finalize the rulemaking process from a July 2020 notice. Current APHIS-approved methods of identification may be used as official identification until further notice.

The following are current APHIS-approved methods:

  • Ear tags both visual-only metal and plastic tags, as well as RFID tags.
  • Permit brands and tattoos as acceptable identification if the shipping and receiving states agree and group/lot identification when a group/lot identification number may be used.

The animal disease traceability regulations for cattle apply only to sexually intact beef animals over 18 months of age moving in interstate commerce, cattle used for exhibition, rodeo and recreational events, and all dairy cattle. NASDA supports the ability to efficiently track food producing animals from birth to slaughter is vital to safeguarding animal health and protecting the safety of the U.S. food supply. During the rulemaking process there will be opportunities for public comment.